GOLDEN APPLE

Golden Apple prepares teachers for rural, suburban and urban schools-of-need in Illinois through our Scholars and Accelerators programs. We are committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective, diverse educators. The Need Is 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. Send a Note of Congratulations!

Admiral Byrd

2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2021 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder. Send Award Recipients a Note of Congratulations! Martin Da Costa. Principal. Winston Campus Jr. High School, Palatine. Watch Surprise Visit. View

Photos.

2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder DR. MICHAEL ODIOTTI SURPRISED WITH 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD CHICAGO (May 7, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Dr. Michael Odiotti, principal of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR FUTURE ILLINOIS TEACHERS The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program is a teacher preparation and tuition assistance program for high school seniors and freshman and sophomore Illinois college students who have the determination and drive to be highly effective teachers in Illinois schools-of-need. STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Chief of Staff. 312-477-7525. pwitmer@goldenapple.org. Ziggy Blackwell. Director of Recruitment. 312-477-7528. zblackwell@goldenapple.org. Cheryl Flores. Director of EVENTS — GOLDEN APPLE View upcoming Golden Apple events and fundraisers.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Meet the Golden Apple Board of Directors. Director, Golder Family Foundation Owner/Director, Ultimate Gymnastics of Gurnee, LLC IN MEMORIAM: PATRICA BLUNT KOLDYKE In Memoriam: Patricia Blunt Koldyke. 1936-2019. It is with great sorrow that we share the news of our beloved Patricia Blunt Koldyke’s death. She passed away on March 27th surrounded by her family in her home in Florida. Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Koldyke family during this time of mourning.

GOLDEN APPLE

Golden Apple prepares teachers for rural, suburban and urban schools-of-need in Illinois through our Scholars and Accelerators programs. We are committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective, diverse educators. The Need Is 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. Send a Note of Congratulations!

Admiral Byrd

2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2021 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder. Send Award Recipients a Note of Congratulations! Martin Da Costa. Principal. Winston Campus Jr. High School, Palatine. Watch Surprise Visit. View

Photos.

2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder DR. MICHAEL ODIOTTI SURPRISED WITH 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD CHICAGO (May 7, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Dr. Michael Odiotti, principal of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR FUTURE ILLINOIS TEACHERS The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program is a teacher preparation and tuition assistance program for high school seniors and freshman and sophomore Illinois college students who have the determination and drive to be highly effective teachers in Illinois schools-of-need. STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Chief of Staff. 312-477-7525. pwitmer@goldenapple.org. Ziggy Blackwell. Director of Recruitment. 312-477-7528. zblackwell@goldenapple.org. Cheryl Flores. Director of EVENTS — GOLDEN APPLE View upcoming Golden Apple events and fundraisers.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Meet the Golden Apple Board of Directors. Director, Golder Family Foundation Owner/Director, Ultimate Gymnastics of Gurnee, LLC IN MEMORIAM: PATRICA BLUNT KOLDYKE In Memoriam: Patricia Blunt Koldyke. 1936-2019. It is with great sorrow that we share the news of our beloved Patricia Blunt Koldyke’s death. She passed away on March 27th surrounded by her family in her home in Florida. Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Koldyke family during this time of mourning.

GOLDEN APPLE

Golden Apple prepares teachers for rural, suburban and urban schools-of-need in Illinois through our Scholars and Accelerators programs. We are committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective, diverse educators. The Need Is NEWS — GOLDEN APPLE Golden Apple News. Golden Apple Surprises Admiral Byrd School Teacher Sara Magnafichi with Prestigious Award for Excellence in Teaching. Awards, Awards Surprise Visits Tony Bosma May 14, 2021. Golden Apple Surprises Joseph Academy-Melrose Park Teacher Anh Pham with Prestigious Award for Excellence in Teaching. 2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Chief of Staff. 312-477-7525. pwitmer@goldenapple.org. Ziggy Blackwell. Director of Recruitment. 312-477-7528. zblackwell@goldenapple.org. Cheryl Flores. Director of GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING 2021 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching Finalists. Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. AWARDS — GOLDEN APPLE The Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching & Leadership was the idea of Golden Apple founders Mike and Patricia Koldyke, who felt that excellent teachers did not receive adequate recognition for their contributions to building a stronger, better-educated society. 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING CHICAGO (February 23, 2021) -- Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today announced the 2021 finalists for the prestigious Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching.. A highly competitive award process resulted in the selection of 32 Pre-K-3rd grade finalists -- just 4.5 MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients WINSTON CAMPUS JR. HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL MARTIN DA COSTA CHICAGO (May 12, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Martin Da Costa, principal of Winston Campus Jr. High School in Palatine, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden Apple REGINALD SPEARS OF BRONZEVILLE CLASSICAL SCHOOL SURPRISED CHICAGO (May 13, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Reginald Spears, a kindergarten through third grade teacher at Bronzeville Classical School in Chicago, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. Send a Note of Congratulations!

Admiral Byrd

2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING CHICAGO (February 23, 2021) -- Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today announced the 2021 finalists for the prestigious Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching.. A highly competitive award process resulted in the selection of 32 Pre-K-3rd grade finalists -- just 4.5 DR. MICHAEL ODIOTTI SURPRISED WITH 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD CHICAGO (May 7, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Dr. Michael Odiotti, principal of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR FUTURE ILLINOIS TEACHERS The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program is a teacher preparation and tuition assistance program for high school seniors and freshman and sophomore Illinois college students who have the determination and drive to be highly effective teachers in Illinois schools-of-need. STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Chief of Staff. 312-477-7525. pwitmer@goldenapple.org. Ziggy Blackwell. Director of Recruitment. 312-477-7528. zblackwell@goldenapple.org. Cheryl Flores. Director of MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients EVENTS — GOLDEN APPLE View upcoming Golden Apple events and fundraisers. REGINALD SPEARS OF BRONZEVILLE CLASSICAL SCHOOL SURPRISED CHICAGO (May 13, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Reginald Spears, a kindergarten through third grade teacher at Bronzeville Classical School in Chicago, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. IN MEMORIAM: PATRICA BLUNT KOLDYKE In Memoriam: Patricia Blunt Koldyke. 1936-2019. It is with great sorrow that we share the news of our beloved Patricia Blunt Koldyke’s death. She passed away on March 27th surrounded by her family in her home in Florida. Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Koldyke family during this time of mourning. NEW GOLDEN APPLE LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCED The Board of the Golden Apple Foundation is pleased to announce that Alicia Winckler has been selected as the organization’s new CEO, effective October 1, 2017. Dom Belmonte, current CEO, will serve in a new role as CEO Emeritus until his retirement on September 30, 2018. 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. Send a Note of Congratulations!

Admiral Byrd

2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING CHICAGO (February 23, 2021) -- Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today announced the 2021 finalists for the prestigious Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching.. A highly competitive award process resulted in the selection of 32 Pre-K-3rd grade finalists -- just 4.5 DR. MICHAEL ODIOTTI SURPRISED WITH 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD CHICAGO (May 7, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Dr. Michael Odiotti, principal of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR FUTURE ILLINOIS TEACHERS The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program is a teacher preparation and tuition assistance program for high school seniors and freshman and sophomore Illinois college students who have the determination and drive to be highly effective teachers in Illinois schools-of-need. STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Chief of Staff. 312-477-7525. pwitmer@goldenapple.org. Ziggy Blackwell. Director of Recruitment. 312-477-7528. zblackwell@goldenapple.org. Cheryl Flores. Director of MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients EVENTS — GOLDEN APPLE View upcoming Golden Apple events and fundraisers. REGINALD SPEARS OF BRONZEVILLE CLASSICAL SCHOOL SURPRISED CHICAGO (May 13, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Reginald Spears, a kindergarten through third grade teacher at Bronzeville Classical School in Chicago, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. IN MEMORIAM: PATRICA BLUNT KOLDYKE In Memoriam: Patricia Blunt Koldyke. 1936-2019. It is with great sorrow that we share the news of our beloved Patricia Blunt Koldyke’s death. She passed away on March 27th surrounded by her family in her home in Florida. Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Koldyke family during this time of mourning. NEW GOLDEN APPLE LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCED The Board of the Golden Apple Foundation is pleased to announce that Alicia Winckler has been selected as the organization’s new CEO, effective October 1, 2017. Dom Belmonte, current CEO, will serve in a new role as CEO Emeritus until his retirement on September 30, 2018. 2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2021 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder. Send Award Recipients a Note of Congratulations! Martin Da Costa. Principal. Winston Campus Jr. High School, Palatine. Watch Surprise Visit. View

Photos.

OUR MISSION

Our Mission. Golden Apple is committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage through its Scholars and Accelerators programs by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective, diverse educators by inspiring, developing, and supporting teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especially in

schools-of-need.

AWARDS — GOLDEN APPLE The Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching & Leadership was the idea of Golden Apple founders Mike and Patricia Koldyke, who felt that excellent teachers did not receive adequate recognition for their contributions to building a stronger, better-educated society. 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING CHICAGO (February 23, 2021) -- Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today announced the 2021 finalists for the prestigious Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching.. A highly competitive award process resulted in the selection of 32 Pre-K-3rd grade finalists -- just 4.5 GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING 2021 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching Finalists. Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Chief of Staff. 312-477-7525. pwitmer@goldenapple.org. Ziggy Blackwell. Director of Recruitment. 312-477-7528. zblackwell@goldenapple.org. Cheryl Flores. Director of GOLDEN APPLE SURPRISES ASHLEY MCCALL WITH 2021 GOLDEN CHICAGO (May 5, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Ashley McCall, a third grade teacher at Chavez Multicultural Academic Center in Chicago, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in

Teaching.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Meet the Golden Apple Board of Directors. Director, Golder Family Foundation Owner/Director, Ultimate Gymnastics of Gurnee, LLC NEW GOLDEN APPLE LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCED The Board of the Golden Apple Foundation is pleased to announce that Alicia Winckler has been selected as the organization’s new CEO, effective October 1, 2017. Dom Belmonte, current CEO, will serve in a new role as CEO Emeritus until his retirement on September 30, 2018. 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. Send a Note of Congratulations!

Admiral Byrd

2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING CHICAGO (February 23, 2021) -- Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today announced the 2021 finalists for the prestigious Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching.. A highly competitive award process resulted in the selection of 32 Pre-K-3rd grade finalists -- just 4.5 DR. MICHAEL ODIOTTI SURPRISED WITH 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD CHICAGO (May 7, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Dr. Michael Odiotti, principal of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR FUTURE ILLINOIS TEACHERS The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program is a teacher preparation and tuition assistance program for high school seniors and freshman and sophomore Illinois college students who have the determination and drive to be highly effective teachers in Illinois schools-of-need. STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Chief of Staff. 312-477-7525. pwitmer@goldenapple.org. Ziggy Blackwell. Director of Recruitment. 312-477-7528. zblackwell@goldenapple.org. Cheryl Flores. Director of MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients EVENTS — GOLDEN APPLE View upcoming Golden Apple events and fundraisers. REGINALD SPEARS OF BRONZEVILLE CLASSICAL SCHOOL SURPRISED CHICAGO (May 13, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Reginald Spears, a kindergarten through third grade teacher at Bronzeville Classical School in Chicago, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. IN MEMORIAM: PATRICA BLUNT KOLDYKE In Memoriam: Patricia Blunt Koldyke. 1936-2019. It is with great sorrow that we share the news of our beloved Patricia Blunt Koldyke’s death. She passed away on March 27th surrounded by her family in her home in Florida. Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Koldyke family during this time of mourning. NEW GOLDEN APPLE LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCED The Board of the Golden Apple Foundation is pleased to announce that Alicia Winckler has been selected as the organization’s new CEO, effective October 1, 2017. Dom Belmonte, current CEO, will serve in a new role as CEO Emeritus until his retirement on September 30, 2018. 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. Send a Note of Congratulations!

Admiral Byrd

2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING CHICAGO (February 23, 2021) -- Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today announced the 2021 finalists for the prestigious Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching.. A highly competitive award process resulted in the selection of 32 Pre-K-3rd grade finalists -- just 4.5 DR. MICHAEL ODIOTTI SURPRISED WITH 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD CHICAGO (May 7, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Dr. Michael Odiotti, principal of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR FUTURE ILLINOIS TEACHERS The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program is a teacher preparation and tuition assistance program for high school seniors and freshman and sophomore Illinois college students who have the determination and drive to be highly effective teachers in Illinois schools-of-need. STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Chief of Staff. 312-477-7525. pwitmer@goldenapple.org. Ziggy Blackwell. Director of Recruitment. 312-477-7528. zblackwell@goldenapple.org. Cheryl Flores. Director of MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients EVENTS — GOLDEN APPLE View upcoming Golden Apple events and fundraisers. REGINALD SPEARS OF BRONZEVILLE CLASSICAL SCHOOL SURPRISED CHICAGO (May 13, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Reginald Spears, a kindergarten through third grade teacher at Bronzeville Classical School in Chicago, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. IN MEMORIAM: PATRICA BLUNT KOLDYKE In Memoriam: Patricia Blunt Koldyke. 1936-2019. It is with great sorrow that we share the news of our beloved Patricia Blunt Koldyke’s death. She passed away on March 27th surrounded by her family in her home in Florida. Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Koldyke family during this time of mourning. NEW GOLDEN APPLE LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCED The Board of the Golden Apple Foundation is pleased to announce that Alicia Winckler has been selected as the organization’s new CEO, effective October 1, 2017. Dom Belmonte, current CEO, will serve in a new role as CEO Emeritus until his retirement on September 30, 2018. 2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2021 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder. Send Award Recipients a Note of Congratulations! Martin Da Costa. Principal. Winston Campus Jr. High School, Palatine. Watch Surprise Visit. View

Photos.

OUR MISSION

Our Mission. Golden Apple is committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage through its Scholars and Accelerators programs by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective, diverse educators by inspiring, developing, and supporting teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especially in

schools-of-need.

AWARDS — GOLDEN APPLE The Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching & Leadership was the idea of Golden Apple founders Mike and Patricia Koldyke, who felt that excellent teachers did not receive adequate recognition for their contributions to building a stronger, better-educated society. 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING CHICAGO (February 23, 2021) -- Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today announced the 2021 finalists for the prestigious Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching.. A highly competitive award process resulted in the selection of 32 Pre-K-3rd grade finalists -- just 4.5 GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING 2021 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching Finalists. Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Chief of Staff. 312-477-7525. pwitmer@goldenapple.org. Ziggy Blackwell. Director of Recruitment. 312-477-7528. zblackwell@goldenapple.org. Cheryl Flores. Director of GOLDEN APPLE SURPRISES ASHLEY MCCALL WITH 2021 GOLDEN CHICAGO (May 5, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Ashley McCall, a third grade teacher at Chavez Multicultural Academic Center in Chicago, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in

Teaching.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Meet the Golden Apple Board of Directors. Director, Golder Family Foundation Owner/Director, Ultimate Gymnastics of Gurnee, LLC NEW GOLDEN APPLE LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCED The Board of the Golden Apple Foundation is pleased to announce that Alicia Winckler has been selected as the organization’s new CEO, effective October 1, 2017. Dom Belmonte, current CEO, will serve in a new role as CEO Emeritus until his retirement on September 30, 2018.

GOLDEN APPLE

Golden Apple prepares teachers for rural, suburban and urban schools-of-need in Illinois through our Scholars and Accelerators programs. We are committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective, diverse educators. The Need Is 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. Send a Note of Congratulations!

Admiral Byrd

2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder

OUR MISSION

Our Mission. Golden Apple is committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage through its Scholars and Accelerators programs by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective, diverse educators by inspiring, developing, and supporting teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especially in

schools-of-need.

DR. MICHAEL ODIOTTI SURPRISED WITH 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD CHICAGO (May 7, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Dr. Michael Odiotti, principal of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR FUTURE ILLINOIS TEACHERS The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program is a teacher preparation and tuition assistance program for high school seniors and freshman and sophomore Illinois college students who have the determination and drive to be highly effective teachers in Illinois schools-of-need. MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Chief of Staff. 312-477-7525. pwitmer@goldenapple.org. Ziggy Blackwell. Director of Recruitment. 312-477-7528. zblackwell@goldenapple.org. Cheryl Flores. Director of

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Meet the Golden Apple Board of Directors. Director, Golder Family Foundation Owner/Director, Ultimate Gymnastics of Gurnee, LLC IN MEMORIAM: PATRICA BLUNT KOLDYKE In Memoriam: Patricia Blunt Koldyke. 1936-2019. It is with great sorrow that we share the news of our beloved Patricia Blunt Koldyke’s death. She passed away on March 27th surrounded by her family in her home in Florida. Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Koldyke family during this time of mourning.

GOLDEN APPLE

Golden Apple prepares teachers for rural, suburban and urban schools-of-need in Illinois through our Scholars and Accelerators programs. We are committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective, diverse educators. The Need Is 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. Send a Note of Congratulations!

Admiral Byrd

2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder

OUR MISSION

Our Mission. Golden Apple is committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage through its Scholars and Accelerators programs by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective, diverse educators by inspiring, developing, and supporting teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especially in

schools-of-need.

DR. MICHAEL ODIOTTI SURPRISED WITH 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD CHICAGO (May 7, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Dr. Michael Odiotti, principal of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR FUTURE ILLINOIS TEACHERS The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program is a teacher preparation and tuition assistance program for high school seniors and freshman and sophomore Illinois college students who have the determination and drive to be highly effective teachers in Illinois schools-of-need. MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Chief of Staff. 312-477-7525. pwitmer@goldenapple.org. Ziggy Blackwell. Director of Recruitment. 312-477-7528. zblackwell@goldenapple.org. Cheryl Flores. Director of

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Meet the Golden Apple Board of Directors. Director, Golder Family Foundation Owner/Director, Ultimate Gymnastics of Gurnee, LLC IN MEMORIAM: PATRICA BLUNT KOLDYKE In Memoriam: Patricia Blunt Koldyke. 1936-2019. It is with great sorrow that we share the news of our beloved Patricia Blunt Koldyke’s death. She passed away on March 27th surrounded by her family in her home in Florida. Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Koldyke family during this time of mourning. NEWS — GOLDEN APPLE Golden Apple News. Golden Apple Surprises Admiral Byrd School Teacher Sara Magnafichi with Prestigious Award for Excellence in Teaching. Awards, Awards Surprise Visits Tony Bosma May 14, 2021. Golden Apple Surprises Joseph Academy-Melrose Park Teacher Anh Pham with Prestigious Award for Excellence in Teaching. 2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder AWARDS — GOLDEN APPLE The Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching & Leadership was the idea of Golden Apple founders Mike and Patricia Koldyke, who felt that excellent teachers did not receive adequate recognition for their contributions to building a stronger, better-educated society. MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients EVENTS — GOLDEN APPLE View upcoming Golden Apple events and fundraisers. Partner. Learn more about how to partner with Golden Apple. Learn More › SARA MAGNAFICHI OF ADMIRAL BYRD SCHOOL SURPRISED WITH 2021 CHICAGO (May 14, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Sara Magnafichi, a first grade teacher at Admiral Byrd School in Elk Grove Village, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in

Teaching.

SUPPORT FOR NEW TEACHERS IS CRUCIAL AS ILLINOIS SHORTAGE Commentary: Support for new teachers is crucial as Illinois shortage is exacerbated by COVID-19. This op-ed by Golden Apple president Alan Mather was published in the Chicago Tribune on October 30, 2020. An educator recently told me the story of a prekindergarten teacher in Illinois named Judith who loves teaching and loves her students, but GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING FINALISTS Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching Finalists Announced. Prestigious statewide award recognizes Illinois teachers in grades 4-8 for superior performance in the classroom and school community. CHICAGO (January 23, 2020) -- Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great

educators who

REGINALD SPEARS OF BRONZEVILLE CLASSICAL SCHOOL SURPRISED CHICAGO (May 13, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Reginald Spears, a kindergarten through third grade teacher at Bronzeville Classical School in Chicago, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. NEW GOLDEN APPLE LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCED The Board of the Golden Apple Foundation is pleased to announce that Alicia Winckler has been selected as the organization’s new CEO, effective October 1, 2017. Dom Belmonte, current CEO, will serve in a new role as CEO Emeritus until his retirement on September 30, 2018.

GOLDEN APPLE

Golden Apple's mission to inspire, develop and support teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especially in schools-of-need. 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. 2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder

OUR MISSION

Golden Apple is committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage through its Scholars and Accelerators programs by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective educators by inspiring, developing, and supporting teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especi DR. MICHAEL ODIOTTI SURPRISED WITH 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD CHICAGO (May 7, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Dr. Michael Odiotti, principal of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR FUTURE ILLINOIS TEACHERS The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program is a teacher preparation and tuition assistance program for high school seniors and freshman and sophomore Illinois college students who have the determination and drive to be highly effective teachers in Illinois schools-of-need. MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Director of Strategic Partnerships Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois Program 312-477-7524 richardson@goldenapple.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Meet the Golden Apple Board of Directors. Director, Golder Family Foundation Owner/Director, Ultimate Gymnastics of Gurnee, LLC IN MEMORIAM: PATRICA BLUNT KOLDYKE It is with great sorrow that we share the news of our beloved Patricia Blunt Koldyke’s death. She passed away on March 27th surrounded by her family in her home in Florida. Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Koldyke family during this time of mourning.

GOLDEN APPLE

Golden Apple's mission to inspire, develop and support teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especially in schools-of-need. 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. 2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder

OUR MISSION

Golden Apple is committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage through its Scholars and Accelerators programs by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective educators by inspiring, developing, and supporting teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especi DR. MICHAEL ODIOTTI SURPRISED WITH 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD CHICAGO (May 7, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Dr. Michael Odiotti, principal of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR FUTURE ILLINOIS TEACHERS The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program is a teacher preparation and tuition assistance program for high school seniors and freshman and sophomore Illinois college students who have the determination and drive to be highly effective teachers in Illinois schools-of-need. MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Director of Strategic Partnerships Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois Program 312-477-7524 richardson@goldenapple.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Meet the Golden Apple Board of Directors. Director, Golder Family Foundation Owner/Director, Ultimate Gymnastics of Gurnee, LLC IN MEMORIAM: PATRICA BLUNT KOLDYKE It is with great sorrow that we share the news of our beloved Patricia Blunt Koldyke’s death. She passed away on March 27th surrounded by her family in her home in Florida. Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Koldyke family during this time of mourning. NEWS — GOLDEN APPLE Golden Apple News. Golden Apple Surprises Admiral Byrd School Teacher Sara Magnafichi with Prestigious Award for Excellence in Teaching. Awards, Awards Surprise Visits Tony Bosma May 14, 2021. Golden Apple Surprises Joseph Academy-Melrose Park Teacher Anh Pham with Prestigious Award for Excellence in Teaching. 2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder AWARDS — GOLDEN APPLE The Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching & Leadership was the idea of Golden Apple founders Mike and Patricia Koldyke, who felt that excellent teachers did not receive adequate recognition for their contributions to building a stronger, better-educated society. MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients EVENTS — GOLDEN APPLE View upcoming Golden Apple events and fundraisers. SARA MAGNAFICHI OF ADMIRAL BYRD SCHOOL SURPRISED WITH 2021 CHICAGO (May 14, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Sara Magnafichi, a first grade teacher at Admiral Byrd School in Elk Grove Village, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in

Teaching.

GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING FINALISTS Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching Finalists Announced. Prestigious statewide award recognizes Illinois teachers in grades 4-8 for superior performance in the classroom and school community. CHICAGO (January 23, 2020) -- Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great

educators who

REGINALD SPEARS OF BRONZEVILLE CLASSICAL SCHOOL SURPRISED CHICAGO (May 13, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Reginald Spears, a kindergarten through third grade teacher at Bronzeville Classical School in Chicago, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. SUPPORT FOR NEW TEACHERS IS CRUCIAL AS ILLINOIS SHORTAGE Commentary: Support for new teachers is crucial as Illinois shortage is exacerbated by COVID-19. This op-ed by Golden Apple president Alan Mather was published in the Chicago Tribune on October 30, 2020. An educator recently told me the story of a prekindergarten teacher in Illinois named Judith who loves teaching and loves her students, but NEW GOLDEN APPLE LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCED The Board of the Golden Apple Foundation is pleased to announce that Alicia Winckler has been selected as the organization’s new CEO, effective October 1, 2017. Dom Belmonte, current CEO, will serve in a new role as CEO Emeritus until his retirement on September 30, 2018.

GOLDEN APPLE

Golden Apple's mission to inspire, develop and support teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especially in schools-of-need. 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. 2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder

OUR MISSION

Golden Apple is committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage through its Scholars and Accelerators programs by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective educators by inspiring, developing, and supporting teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especi DR. MICHAEL ODIOTTI SURPRISED WITH 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD CHICAGO (May 7, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Dr. Michael Odiotti, principal of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR FUTURE ILLINOIS TEACHERS The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program is a teacher preparation and tuition assistance program for high school seniors and freshman and sophomore Illinois college students who have the determination and drive to be highly effective teachers in Illinois schools-of-need. MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Director of Strategic Partnerships Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois Program 312-477-7524 richardson@goldenapple.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Meet the Golden Apple Board of Directors. Director, Golder Family Foundation Owner/Director, Ultimate Gymnastics of Gurnee, LLC IN MEMORIAM: PATRICA BLUNT KOLDYKE It is with great sorrow that we share the news of our beloved Patricia Blunt Koldyke’s death. She passed away on March 27th surrounded by her family in her home in Florida. Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Koldyke family during this time of mourning.

GOLDEN APPLE

Golden Apple's mission to inspire, develop and support teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especially in schools-of-need. 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Following a highly competitive process, 32 Pre-K-3rd grade teachers were selected as finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching – just 4.5% percent of a record-setting 708 nominations received from 67 counties in Illinois. 2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder

OUR MISSION

Golden Apple is committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage through its Scholars and Accelerators programs by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective educators by inspiring, developing, and supporting teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especi DR. MICHAEL ODIOTTI SURPRISED WITH 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD CHICAGO (May 7, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting exemplary educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Dr. Michael Odiotti, principal of Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Waukegan, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR FUTURE ILLINOIS TEACHERS The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program is a teacher preparation and tuition assistance program for high school seniors and freshman and sophomore Illinois college students who have the determination and drive to be highly effective teachers in Illinois schools-of-need. MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients STAFF — GOLDEN APPLE Director of Strategic Partnerships Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois Program 312-477-7524 richardson@goldenapple.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Meet the Golden Apple Board of Directors. Director, Golder Family Foundation Owner/Director, Ultimate Gymnastics of Gurnee, LLC IN MEMORIAM: PATRICA BLUNT KOLDYKE It is with great sorrow that we share the news of our beloved Patricia Blunt Koldyke’s death. She passed away on March 27th surrounded by her family in her home in Florida. Our deepest sympathies go out to the entire Koldyke family during this time of mourning. 2020 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENTS 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award Recipients. Presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member, Stanley C. Golder NEWS — GOLDEN APPLE Read the latest news about Golden Apple. Golden Apple Honors Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep Principal Michael Odiotti as 2021 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership Recipient AWARDS — GOLDEN APPLE The Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching & Leadership was the idea of Golden Apple founders Mike and Patricia Koldyke, who felt that excellent teachers did not receive adequate recognition for their contributions to building a stronger, better-educated society. MEGHAN RICE SURPRISED AS 2021 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD RECIPIENT CHICAGO (May 3, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Meghan Rice, a Kindergarten teacher at Willard Elementary School in Evanston, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.Rice is one of 10 teacher award recipients EVENTS — GOLDEN APPLE View upcoming Golden Apple events and fundraisers. Partner. Learn more about how to partner with Golden Apple. Learn More ›

TEACHING SCHOLARS

Schools-of-Need. Golden Apple Scholars are required to sign a contract to teach for five years in a school-of-need in Illinois within seven years of obtaining an undergraduate degree and acquiring an Illinois Initial Teaching Certificate. SARA MAGNAFICHI OF ADMIRAL BYRD SCHOOL SURPRISED WITH 2021 CHICAGO (May 14, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Sara Magnafichi, a first grade teacher at Admiral Byrd School in Elk Grove Village, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in

Teaching.

REGINALD SPEARS OF BRONZEVILLE CLASSICAL SCHOOL SURPRISED CHICAGO (May 13, 2021) - Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Reginald Spears, a kindergarten through third grade teacher at Bronzeville Classical School in Chicago, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. GOLDEN APPLE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING FINALISTS Prestigious statewide award recognizes Illinois teachers in grades 4-8 for superior performance in the classroom and school community. CHICAGO (January 23, 2020) -- Golden Apple, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today announced the 2020 finalists for the prestigious Golden Apple NEW GOLDEN APPLE LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCED The Board of the Golden Apple Foundation is pleased to announce that Alicia Winckler has been selected as the organization’s new CEO, effective October 1, 2017. Dom Belmonte, current CEO, will serve in a new role as CEO Emeritus until his retirement on September 30, 2018. Our Mission Scholars Accelerators Awards Partner With Us Online Learning Resources

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Golden Apple prepares highly-effective teachers for rural, suburban and urban schools-of-need in Illinois. We are committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage through its Scholars and Accelerators programs by expanding the state’s pipeline of highly effective educators by inspiring, developing, and supporting teacher and school leader excellence in Illinois, especially in

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Golden Apple Surprises Triad Middle School Teacher with Prestigious Award for Excellence in Teaching

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Golden Apple Surprises Brighton Park Elementary School Teacher with Prestigious Award for Excellence in Teaching

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Golden Apple Surprises Westview Elementary School Teacher with Prestigious Award for Excellence in Teaching

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